“It is not a punishment,” Valverde said of the 21-year-old’s absence. “Everyone can interpret it as they wish.”

Dembele’s latest indiscretion has led to further speculation over the long-term future of the 105million euro signing from Borussia Dortmund, but Valverde said he remained keen to help him realise his potential.

“The talent that Dembele has is difficult to find and we have to help him take advantage of it,” he said. “We want the best from every player in our team. Dembele has incredible talent and we want to help him show it some day.”

Lionel Messi is back in the Barcelona squad after injury (Nick Potts/PA)

While Dembele may be proving a distraction this week Messi’s return will come as a huge boost and the Argentinian was not alone in resuming training, with Samuel Umtiti and Marc-Andre Ter Stegen also included following injuries. Umtiti has not played since September due to a knee problem.